Decoding History's Prophecies

Astrologer Nostradamus wrote hundreds of cryptic verses that seemingly predict future events. According to legend, Houska Castle guards a portal to hell and is where poet Macha had a horrifying vision of the future. In medieval Italy, St. Francis of Assisi claimed the first case of stigmata, believing he received the wounds of Christ.

Rasputin’s visions and claimed ability to heal earned him a reputation that lifted him into the last czar’s inner circle and the annals of history. Chinese scholars seek to unlock the secrets of an ancient script and fortune-telling system. In Point Pleasant, West Virginia, a mysterious winged creature was seen just before a tragic bridge collapse.

In 14th century China, the brilliant Liu Bowen lends his talents and prophetic predictions to a dynasty on the rise. After declaring himself dictator of Rome, Julius Caesar receives a chilling divination. Why didn’t he heed the warnings? In Scotland, the noble Erskine family receives a prophesy that follows them like a curse for generations.

Edgar Cayce is one of the most well-known mystics of the U.S. His hypnotic methods have influenced public perception of a turbulent 20th century. In ancient Greece, the Oracle of Delphi is consulted on wars as well as the rise and fall of kingdoms. Eliphas Lévi is best known as a progenitor of occult symbols, but is his work misunderstood?

When police in 1970s U.S. get stumped, they sometimes turn to unusual methods. Dorothy Allison is one of the premier “psychic detectives.” John of God brings New Age followers the world over to Brazil for his healing touch. But is he really a holy man? In Roman-occupied Judea, Jewish commander Flavius Josephus becomes a prophet upon his capture.